Women Religious, Women Deacons: Questions and Answers

These five essays explore the themes of women religious becoming ordained deacons, addressing questions such as why they should consider it, the canonical implications, and its potential impact on the ministry of women. The essays are based on years of research and consultation with women religious worldwide.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 56 pages
Publication date: 05 April 2022
Publisher: Paulist Press International,U.S.

These five essays investigating questions relative to women religious becoming ordained deacons first appeared in Global Sisters Report. Each essay presents themes garnered during years of research and consultation with women religious around the world, and addresses questions such as:

Why should women religious consider the diaconate?
What are the canonical implications of ordination?
Would ordination assist the ministry of women?

The essays in this collection explore the complex and multifaceted issue of women religious becoming ordained deacons. Drawing on extensive research and consultation with women religious from diverse religious traditions worldwide, the authors offer insights and perspectives that shed light on the potential benefits and challenges of this emerging phenomenon.

One of the central themes explored in the essays is the question of why women religious should consider the diaconate. The authors argue that the diaconate is a valuable and complementary ministry that can contribute to the broader mission of the church. They highlight the unique gifts and strengths that women religious bring to the diaconate, such as their empathy, listening skills, and ability to connect with people on a personal level. Additionally, the essays suggest that the diaconate can provide opportunities for women religious to serve in leadership roles and to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

Another important theme addressed in the essays is the canonical implications of ordination for women religious. The authors argue that the ordination of women as deacons is consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church and with the broader tradition of Christian ministry. They note that the diaconate has a long history of women's participation and that the ordination of women is a matter of justice and equality. However, the essays also raise concerns about the potential challenges that women religious may face in pursuing ordination, such as resistance from some members of the church and cultural barriers.

The essays also explore the potential benefits of ordination for the ministry of women. The authors argue that the ordination of women as deacons can help to break down gender barriers and promote greater inclusivity and diversity in the church. They note that women religious have unique perspectives and experiences that can contribute to the broader ministry of the church, and that the diaconate can provide them with opportunities to serve in leadership roles and to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

However, the essays also raise concerns about the potential challenges that women religious may face in pursuing ordination. The authors argue that the ordination of women as deacons may create tensions and conflicts within religious communities and that it may require significant changes in the way that the church operates. They note that the ordination of women may also raise questions about the role of women in the church and the nature of religious authority.

In conclusion, these five essays provide a valuable and insightful exploration of the questions relative to women religious becoming ordained deacons. The authors offer a range of perspectives and arguments that shed light on the potential benefits and challenges of this emerging phenomenon. While the ordination of women as deacons is a complex and controversial issue, the essays suggest that it is a matter of justice and equality that can contribute to the broader mission of the church. As the debate continues, it is important to continue to engage in respectful and open dialogue and to seek to understand the experiences and perspectives of women religious who are considering ordination.

Weight: 70g
Dimension: 126 x 179 x 6 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780809156122